Sabal General Dentistry | Airline - November 2021

Sabal General Dentistry | Airline - November 2021

2222 Airline Rd., Suite A4, Corpus Christi, TX 78414 | www.SabalDental.com | (361) 853-8999 | November 2021

Meet Dental Assistant Nelda Garces! 28 Years and Counting

If you’ve been coming to our office for a while, there’s a good chance we’ve already met. My name is Nelda Garces, and I’ve been here for 28 years! Before this job, I spent eight years making burgers. I decided I didn’t want to do that anymore and wanted to try something new. There was an ad in the newspaper, so I wrote a letter to the dentist who ran the practice at the time. I had no experience, so it took me several interviews to convince her that I could do the job. In the end, she decided to take the time to teach me, and I’ve been here ever since! I love being a dental assistant at Sabal Dental, and working with my patients is such a joy. I enjoy getting to know them and helping them understand their dental health. Sometimes they don’t realize how serious their conditions can become if they’re left untreated, so I do my best to help them understand why it’s best to resolve issues early. During my time here, I’ve worked with many patients who are afraid of their procedures, and some have tried to walk right out of the office instead of undergoing the treatment they need. I sit down with them and explain that they’re in control of the entire process. If they want us to stop, we’ll stop. I explain how the nitrous oxide works, and that we can turn it off if they don’t like it. Generally, they stay — and tell me that

it wasn’t as bad as they expected. When they come back to the office for their next appointment, they’re not afraid anymore.

I also love when we do cosmetic work; we sometimes have patients come in who haven’t smiled in years because they’re so ashamed of their teeth. There’s such a big difference once they see their treatment completed; sometimes they cry, which makes me emotional as well. My husband and I have seven children and 21 grandchildren. I love seeing my grandbabies, and I’m excited that one of my daughters just retired from the military after 20 years and moved back near us. In my spare time, I love to cook, and I’ll cook just about anything. Honestly, I’d spend all day in the kitchen, but my husband just won’t let me. I wish that I could cook a meal for each of my patients just once, but of course, I don’t have the time. I do share my recipes, though, and patients will often come back and ask for more. What I love most about working for Sabal Dental is that we’re truly like a family. Last year, my husband got sick and had his foot amputated. We needed to install a ramp at home so he could enter and exit the house, but the work was more than we could afford. So, Dr. Thompson and Dr. LaPointe built the ramp for us. Dr. Thompson brought kids from his church to do the construction, and Dr. LaPointe painted it. I get emotional just thinking about how they’ve supported me and my family; everyone here at the office tries to stick together and help each other as much as we can. I’m so lucky to have a job that I enjoy going to every day. I’m always the first one here, and if I need to work extra to help a patient during unusual hours, I don’t mind — the most important thing is making sure they get care. After 28 years, I’m still glad to be a part of this team and family. I’m also happy to work with my wonderful patients every day. You’re the ones who make it all worthwhile.

–Nelda

Dr. LaPointe

Dr. Thompson and the boys from his church

Sabal General Dentistry • (361) 853-8999 • 1

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GOOD FOR MIND AND HEALTH The Benefits of Positive Relationships

Connecting with other humans in a positive way is one of the most profound experiences we have. That positivity is one of the greatest virtues — it’s contagious, and engaging in happy relationships with others is extremely important not only for our minds but also for our health. Longer Lives Studies have actually shown that when people are involved in positive relationships, they live longer. This is likely attributed to decreased stress, as stress can exact a toll on the entire body. Positive relationships can also encourage us to give up negative habits such as drinking or smoking, which cause many health problems and concerns. Healthy habits can help people live longer lives. Quicker Healing Positive people in our lives can distract us from pain, remind us to take medication, be our advocates, and simply reduce stress. And less stress means healing takes place faster. Those who have a support person feel more confident and prepared to undergo surgeries and fight illnesses as well. Boosted Immune Systems It makes sense — people who have less stress have stronger immune systems. During times of high stress, our bodies are more susceptible to illnesses because our immune system’s ability to

fight off antigens is reduced. The stress hormone corticosteroid can also lower the number of

lymphocytes available to fight infection. However, when we are in a happy and loving relationship, our bodies produce oxytocin, and we are less likely to get sick. Better Physical Shape Being in a positive relationship, especially a romantic one, can provide the motivation to be the best version of ourselves. This includes our physical condition, too! Having a friend or workout partner to encourage accountability and even push us out of our comfort zone a bit at the gym can keep us motivated. Being in a positive, healthy, and happy relationship means we listen to each other, offer advice, openly communicate without judgment, practice respect and trust, and engage in healthy activities together. So, it’s no surprise that positive relationships work wonders for our health and happiness.

OUR PATIENTS SAY IT BEST “I always enjoy the care that is shown when I go see the ladies and gentlemen here at Sabal! Alyssa, my hygienist,

“Sabal Dental’s dentist and staff are always friendly and very accommodating for last-minute dental procedures. I’m very pleased with their work. Thanks.” –Vianney L.

showed great professionalism and made sure I was completely comfortable during my routine cleaning! It makes me feel great knowing they look for my comfort while making sure my oral hygiene stays up to date! I’ll be looking forward to my next cleaning!” –Carlos G. “Very professional, and the quality of dental work is superior in all respects. As an orthodontic specialist, I have referred many of my patients to this office, all of whom have thanked me over and over. Personally, I see Dr. Thompson for any restorative needs I might have, and his attention to detail is beyond the scope of what I have witnessed locally. Most excellent!” –Janet V.

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The Link Between Oral Health and Digestion Healthy Digestion Starts Where?

Did you know that the health of your mouth is directly linked to other parts of your body? Regular dental visits are paramount to ensure your digestive health as well as your overall health! A healthier mouth promotes a healthier body. Proper digestion plays a major role in your overall health. Your gut is linked to your immune system, metabolism, and even your brain. Your mouth, which shares a close bond with your gut, may be the easiest way to detect a problem elsewhere in your body, especially digestive issues and diseases. Inflammatory bowel diseases, such as Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, all present in the mouth in the form of an oral infestation. You may even develop white lesions within your mouth, similar to the ones within the colon. Bleeding gums or gingivitis is a sign that somewhere within your digestive system, there is a problem. If you have painful lesions or red patches on your gums and inside of your cheeks, they could point to a potential vitamin B12 deficiency. Lack of B12, or an inability to properly absorb the vitamin, can potentially mean bigger problems in another area of your body. Tooth decay also weakens your immune system.

Dental issues and diseases are often the very first signs of a digestive imbalance. If you have an immune imbalance within your gut, it can present with mouth ulcers and

inflamed, red gums. Celiac disease, an autoimmune response to gluten, can interfere with tooth formation, resulting in discolored teeth and possibly mouth ulcers. To maximize your gut health, you must first take a look within your mouth, as it can be the window to many other potential issues going on elsewhere in your body. A healthy, happy mouth equals a healthy, happy gut!

Have a Laugh!

Nelda’s Hamburger Steaks

Ingredients Makes two steaks • 2 lbs 80/20 ground beef • 1 1/2 tsp garlic powder • 3/4 cup flour • 1/2 tsp salt • 1/2 tsp black pepper • 1 cup mushrooms, chopped • 1 cup onions, chopped

• 1 cup jalapeños, chopped • 1 cup shredded cheese For serving: • 2 slices Texas toast, toasted • 1 medium onion, sliced and sautéed in butter • Brown gravy

Directions 1. In a medium bowl, mix ground beef, garlic powder, flour, salt, and black pepper. Make 4 thin patties equal in size. 2. Divide the mushrooms, onions, jalapeños, and cheese into two even groups. Choose 2 patties and place the veggies and cheese on top of each patty. 3. Place the two remaining patties over the top of the vegetables and cheese. Seal the edges of both patties together. 4. In a skillet over medium heat, cook for 20 minutes on each side. 5. Place your fully cooked hamburger steaks on top of the toasted Texas toast and top with sautéed onions and brown gravy. 6. Serve alongside your favorite seasonal vegetables.

Sabal General Dentistry • (361) 853-8999 • 3

PRST STD US POSTAGE PAID BOISE, ID PERMIT 411

2222 Airline Road, Suite A4 Corpus Christi, TX 78414

Hours: M–F 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Inside This Issue

Meet Dental Assistant Nelda Garces! PAGE 1 The Benefits of Positive Relationships PAGE 2

Hear From Our Happy Patients! PAGE 2

The Link Between Oral Health and Digestion PAGE 3

Nelda’s Hamburger Steaks PAGE 3 Lowering Holiday Stress PAGE 4

Recharge First Ensure you’re rested and recharged before the holidays by taking time to relax, getting enough sleep, and engaging in activities that make you feel good. When you’re rushing to get everything done, it can be tempting to skip self-care routines, but that will cost you in the long run. Your daily exercise and other health activities keep you balanced and ready to face challenges head-on. Get Started Early Holidays always arrive faster than we expect, so begin preparing early. If shopping for presents is a pain point, don’t wait until the last minute. Decorate earlier than you need to — or better yet, get the kids to do it for you. There’s only so much cooking you can do ahead of time, but ensuring you have all of the equipment and nonperishable ingredients you need a few weeks in advance will reduce both your workload and anxiety. Don’t Expect Perfection The sooner you let go of the idea of a “perfect” holiday, the sooner you’ll be able to have a happy one. Face it: Something will go wrong. Whether it’s an overcooked dish, a child throwing a temper tantrum, or your uncle talking politics at the dinner table, nothing will ever go just how you planned. So, embrace the imperfections. Whether you’re celebrating this year with a group of two or 20, holidays can be a stressful time — but they don’t have to be. With these tips, your festivities may not be picture-perfect, but they will be a lot of fun.

The holidays are right around the corner, and while many people can’t wait to eat turkey and swap presents, others only see stress on the horizon. Especially for those hosting parties, between decorations, big dinners, excited kids, and visiting family, it can all feel overwhelming. If celebrations are happening at your house this year, here are three tips to lessen the strain and keep up the holiday cheer. HAVE A LOW- STRESS HOLIDAY 3 Tips for a Merrier Time

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Don’t LEAF Your Benefits Behind! You’ve paid for them all year, so don’t let your dental benefits expire! Now is the time to use them or lose them! Call us today to schedule your appointment so your benefits don’t go to waste. With the holidays just around the corner, you’ll want to get your appointment booked now so you can show up to every feast with a perfect smile. Appointments are filling up fast, so call us today to book your appointment so you can use your benefits before you lose them! SabalDental.com/airline (361) 853-8999

Don’t be a turkey! Waiting until December to sched le your appointment could leave you out in the cold!

3 Things to Do Before Your Dental Benefits Expire This Year • Make sure you’ve used your dental exam and preventive care appointments for the year. • Use your maximum yearly allowance. If your benefits aren’t used, you lose them, as they do not roll over to the next year. • Don’t put off dental treatments that could end up costing you more in the long run. Make an appointment today to get a treatment plan in place.

In previous years, over 74% of patients who waited until December to use their dental benefits were unable to get an appointment. Call us TODAY and don’t delay! SabalDental.com/airline (361) 853-8999